Overview

The Skoda Karoq is a key competitor in the popular mid-size SUV market, and successor to the much-loved Yeti. The Karoq is a conventional design, based on the Volkswagen Tiguan and is packed a plethora of features that help Skoda products stand out from the family car crowd.

As such, if you’re after a five-seater family car that offers good value and plenty of comfort, the Karoq should definitely be on your radar. Facelifted in 2022, it looks sharp and up-to date inside and out, and features the firm’s most efficient engines for excellent fuel economy, emissions, and competitive performance.

Being a competitor in one of the most hotly-contested classes in the market means the Karoq faces competent rivals from almost every other car manufacturer. Our favourite apart from the Skoda is the closely-related SEAT Ateca, which trades a few clever features for a more sporting chassis tune and a different kind of style. It’s difficult to discount the likes of the Kia Sportage, though, which offers a long warranty, selection of hybrid powertrains and a futuristic style – none of which the Karoq has.

Britain, meanwhile, seems to have cast its vote for the Nissan Qashqai, which is a perennial best-seller and a dependable choice. We reckon the Skoda’s a better overall package than any of these rivals, though.

Broadly speaking, the Karoq presents a viable alternative to almost everything the others can throw at it. Although, with engine choice limited to conventional petrol and diesel motors, Skoda is looking a little out of touch with modern times – not even offering any form of hybrid capability. That said, the engines do have a number of clever tricks to help keep your eco-conscience clear.

Furthermore, a choice of manual and automatic transmissions, plus four-wheel drive on Karoq 4×4 models, makes for a well-rounded selection of versions. And with as much as 190hp it doesn’t struggle for performance. There are three current trim levels, covering most tastes: SE Drive, SE L and Sportline.

Updates for the facelift included the option of an Eco pack that features seat coverings partially made from recycled plastic bottles, while slimmer LED headlights work even more effectively. Other tweaks, such as the optimised wheel covers and extended rear spoiler, improve the aerodynamics, helping the car achieve better mpg.

Over the next few pages, we’ll be thoroughly reviewing all aspects of the Skoda Karoq and rating them in our verdict. Along the way, we’ll consider the car’s driving experience, the quality and comfort of its interior, the level of practicality available and how much it’ll cost you to keep it on the road.